In modern times, we can reflect on those who standout as fashion legends…Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, Alek Wek, Selita Ebanks are just some of the black supermodels who have achieved mainstream success. At least one or most of us agree that we’ve tried modeling and have either tried and failed or succeeded, and realized that fashion is truly a dog-eat-dog business! Despite our feats, we cannot ignore those firsts who changed the fashion industry and paved the way for black women. Behold the legendary fashionistas on our list:
Beverly Johnson – She’s a true revolutionary figure in fashion! Bev Johnson is at best an icon and one of the first black women to grace the cover of American Vogue in 1974. With over 500 magazine covers to her credit, she has inspired a league of black supermodels including Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell to walk and strut on the runaway. And she shows no signs of slowing down. Among her many talents, she has made movie and television appearances including the show, “Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns.”
Veronica Webb – You can agree that age hasn’t kicked in yet for Ms. Webb. In fact, the 45-year-old beauty model made a name for herself in fashion before becoming a professional journalist. She was the first African-American woman to sign an exclusive contract with Revlon cosmetics in 1992. Currently, she acts and promotes a Eucerin skin line.
Iman – The Somalian-born was discovered out of college and became a world-class supermodel, rising to the top in fashion! With a career spanning 30 years, she has worked with fashion designers from Yves-Saint Laurent to Gianni Versace. Years of experience have finally paid off for her! She runs her own business, Iman Cosmetics, which generates more than $25 million a year.
Naomi Sims – No one took center stage as quickly as Naomi Sims. She redefined the word “beautiful” and turned it into sweet success. More importantly, she made every black woman rise to the occasion. The first black model to appear on the fashion cover of the New York Times, she expanded a beauty conglomerate and wrote many novels as an author.
Donyale Luna – She literally flipped the switch in fashion and broke down barriers for women of color. The Detroit native soared to fame with her innovative poses which landed her on the cover of the Harper’s Bazaar in 1965. The first black woman to ever attain that feat! There is no doubt that she was one of a kind.
Beverly Peele – Discovered in 1989, Ms. Peele rose to status after landing her first magazine cover on Mademoiselle in 1989. Fashion designers were smitten with her beauty so much that they had her complete runway work for Chanel and Versace. And that doesn’t even count her matchstick poses for Cosmopolitan and Elle. An ultimate diva!
Naomi Campbell – The chameleon of fashion is amongst us. The international supermodel from England, is namely one of the most prominent figures in fashion. And she gives fashion designers and models a run for their money. The philanthropist has appeared in over 100 magazine covers and is untouchable in modern fashion. She’ll knock you out. Literally.
Tyra Banks – Before her show “America’s Next Top Model” made television success, she dared for the spotlight in more ways than you can count. Television host, supermodel, actress, and more comprise this Madame’s resume. Banks’ efforts have made her a recognizable figure in the fashion market and she holds the record as the first to feature on the cover of Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition in 1996. You go girl!
